how to keep crane flies away from door

Crane flies, also known as daddy longlegs, are insects that resemble oversized mosquitoes. While they don't bite or sting, their presence can still be a nuisance. They tend to gather around doorways, which can be an issue if you're someone who enjoys spending time outdoors or likes to keep your windows and doors open. Fortunately, there are a number of ways you can keep these bugs at bay. In this article, we'll explore how to keep crane flies away from your door.

Switch to yellow-colored outdoor lights

Changing the color of your outdoor lights may help keep crane flies away from your door. These bugs are attracted to white lights, so switching to yellow or amber bulbs can reduce their presence. The reason for this is that the wavelength of yellow light isn't as appealing to crane flies as white light. Plus, yellow bulbs are often less harsh on our eyes at night, which can be an added bonus.

Maintain a tidy outdoor space

Crane flies are often attracted to damp environments and areas with an abundance of vegetation. That means if you have a large garden or a lawn that's often wet, you might be attracting more of these bugs than you bargained for. One easy way to keep them away from your door is to maintain a tidy outdoor space. This involves mowing your lawn regularly, removing any standing water, and trimming back bushes and trees that may be too close to your home. Doing so will not only reduce the number of crane flies near your door, but it can also improve the overall appearance and safety of your property.

Install screens on all windows and doors

Closing windows and doors may seem like an obvious solution to keeping crane flies out, but it's not always practical. Fortunately, there's an alternative: installing screens on all your windows and doors. These screens act as a barrier, preventing crane flies from entering your home while still allowing fresh air to circulate. You can purchase screens from most hardware stores and install them yourself or hire a professional if you're not comfortable doing it on your own.

Use natural remedies

If you prefer more natural remedies, there are several options that may help keep crane flies away from your door. For instance, you can create a homemade spray using essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus. These scents are known to deter insects, including crane flies. Simply add a few drops of the essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water and spray the solution around the perimeter of your door. Another natural option is to plant herbs such as basil, lemongrass, or rosemary near your door, as their strong scents can also repel insects.

Conclusion

There are a number of effective ways to keep crane flies away from your door. Whether you choose to switch to yellow lights, maintain a tidy outdoor space, install screens, or use natural remedies, taking action now can make a big difference in the long run. By implementing these tips, you can reduce the number of crane flies in your immediate vicinity, and make spending time outdoors more enjoyable.